Why “Let’s Begin to Heal” in Relation to the Pandemic Won’t Work and 9 Practices That Will Help!

I keep hearing in relation to the pandemic, and especially in educational settings, let’s begin to heal, or let’s start the healing process. It strikes me as odd given that in the therapy world, it’s known that we are not able to heal trauma if we are still in it. And unfortunately, for us and our children, we are still in the pandemic. The uncertainty and loss of control continue as we do not know what is ahead?

According to Gabor Maté “uncertainty, isolation, loss of control, and conflict are the major triggers for stress.” Conceptually due to the pandemic, most of us are stuck in an extended stress response, which for humans is exhausting and detrimental to our wellbeing. 

What we should be practicing during this time is ways to nurture our systems, create security, and offer support for ourselves and our children, to foster resiliency and mitigate further harm. I am a firm believer in going back to the basics for mental health and wellness! Be practicing these 9 things: 

1.    Proper nutrition, extra sleep/rest, and plenty of water.

2.    More exercise and moving bodies!

3.    Extra time in nature!

4.    More unstructured, free playtime especially for children!

5.    Time doing creative pursuits to process and calm!

6.    Connecting with community and finding a sense of belonging in groups of people!

7.    Reflective, time-in practices such as meditation, mindfulness, or stretching!

8.    Receiving and giving trusted holding and touching. One of the best ways to calm our nervous systems.

9.    Reach out for professional support!

Times have been tough. We all need each other more than ever. Our children are counting on us, watching us, learning how to navigate hard times. As Glennon Doyle says, “we can do hard things.” Coriander Living Collective is here to support you.